The Surgeon General’s Call to Action on Parenting and What it Means for Us All

Last week, I had a “day.” A day where nothing went right. Our dog was sick, the laundry piles were touching the ceiling, my children’s emotions were running high and they were begging to spend time with me, plus I had three large looming deadlines at work. All of those elements felt impossible to work through and all of the deep breaths in the world couldn’t save me from the stress. By the end of the day, I realized I had to practice what I preach. As a CEO of a family non-profit, a wife, and a mom of two littles, I can easily become all consumed by the to-do list and forget about my role in relationships. I can forget to ask for help, to lean on those around me, and to make my needs known. 

As busy parents and caregivers, it’s easy to lose sight of the most important aspect of our journey: our mental health and well-being.

Recently, the United States Surgeon General issued an advisory on the mental health and well-being of parents, shedding light on an issue that many of us feel every day but rarely talk about openly.

The Surgeon General’s advisory highlights a growing concern: parents in America are struggling with their mental health. The report points out several key factors contributing to this crisis, including financial stress, lack of support, work-life balance challenges, and potential lingering effects from the pandemic. It also notes that parents, particularly those with young children, are facing higher rates of anxiety, depression, and burnout than ever before.

One of the most striking parts of the advisory is its focus on the ripple effects of parental mental health. When parents struggle, it’s not just the adults who suffer; children are deeply affected too. A parent’s emotional state can influence their child’s development, behavior, and even long-term well-being. As the Surgeon General noted, “When parents thrive, children thrive.”

So, what can we do? The advisory emphasizes the importance of seeking help and building strong support networks.

Here are a few steps parents can take to protect their mental health:

1. Seek professional help. Now I know this can feel like another thing to add to your list of to-do’s. Another thing to research, another appointment to make, but if you had a terrible, persistent headache or constant nausea for weeks, wouldn’t you do whatever you could to prioritize a doctor’s visit to find relief? Your mental health deserves the same sense of urgency. Therapy can provide a safe space to discuss your feelings, develop coping strategies, and navigate the challenges of parenting.

2. Rely on your support network. Connect with other parents, family members, or friends who understand what you’re going through. If you’re married or actively in a healthy co-parenting relationship, be open with your partner about how you’re feeling. Let them know when you need a little extra support or time to yourself. Sometimes, just talking to someone who “gets it” can make a world of difference.

3. Prioritize self-care. I know, I know—self-care is the buzzword that can sometimes feel like an impossible dream. But even small moments—like a quiet cup of coffee in the morning or a 10-minute walk—can help recharge your batteries. I wake up every morning at least 30 minutes before the rest of my family. I drink coffee, cuddle my dog, reflect on the previous day, pray for the day ahead, and take deep breaths. This alone time greatly influences my mood for the day, and my husband helps me protect it.

4. Advocate for family-friendly policies. The advisory specifically calls on workplaces, communities, and policymakers to create environments that support parents. Flexible work schedules, affordable childcare, and paid family leave are crucial. As parents, we can advocate for these changes in our communities and workplaces. Our local United Way of Chattanooga is actively working to affect policies for working families in our community. You can learn more about the movement and how to get involved by going to unitedwaycha.org/workingfamilies

The Surgeon General’s advisory is more than just a wake-up call; it’s a call to action.

By prioritizing the mental health and well-being of parents, we can build a stronger foundation for families across our community and the nation. Imagine a future where every parent has access to the resources and support they need to thrive—and where every child has the stable parent or caregiver they need to grow and develop successfully.

This advisory also signals a broader shift in how we view parenting in America.

It’s a recognition that parenting isn’t just a personal journey; it’s a public health issue. By supporting parents, we’re not just helping individuals or families—we’re fostering healthier, more resilient communities.

I understand the unique challenges of balancing it all. Some days are filled with joy and laughter; others are a mix of chaos and tears. But remember, we’re in this together. This advisory is a reminder that it’s okay to seek help, lean on each other, and prioritize our well-being. Remember, asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

So, to all the parents reading this, know that you are not alone. Let’s take this advisory as a stepping stone towards a future where every parent feels supported, every child feels safe, and every family thrives.